Police Seek Assistance Identifying Sexual Assault Suspect (VIDEO)

Suspect wanted in connection with a sexual assault and vehicle he was driving.

The Long Beach Police Department is seeking the public’s help in identifying a suspect wanted in connection with a sexual assault, and is hoping someone will come forward with information.

On January 14, 2014, at approximately 1:30 a.m., a male suspect kidnapped a 53-year-old mentally impaired female from a parking lot in the area of 15th Street and Long Beach Boulevard, and sexually assaulted her. Approximately 45 minutes later, the suspect dropped the victim off in the area of 16th Street and Martin Luther King Boulevard. The victim immediately reported the incident to police and cooperated with the Sexual Assault Response Team. Detectives are now working with Los Angeles County Sheriff Department’s Scientific Services Bureau to uncover any possible physical evidence.

The suspect is described as a male Black or Hispanic, with a medium complexion, approximately 30-years-old, 5’9″ to 5’11” tall, and 180 to 200 pounds, with short black hair. The suspect was wearing a light colored pull over sweatshirt, dark pants and dark shoes. The suspect’s vehicle is believed to be a dark colored mid-sized 4-door (possible mid-to-late 1990s Nissan Maxima). There was no weapon seen by the victim; however, the suspect used physical force to get the victim into his vehicle.

Detectives have been actively investigating the incident, working closely with Patrol, using other investigative tools, and following up on leads in an effort to identify the suspect, and are now asking for the public’s help. The kidnapping of the victim was caught on surveillance video from a nearby business, and detectives believe the suspect is familiar with the area may be recognizable. In the video clips, the suspect can be seen getting out of his vehicle, walking over to the victim, and then walking the victim over to his vehicle.

If you recognize the suspect or have information relating to this crime, please contact Long Beach Police Sex Crimes Detective Jennifer Kearns at (562) 570-7368. Anonymous tips may be submitted by calling 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), texting TIPLA plus your tip to CRIMES (274637), or visiting www.lacrimestoppers.org. The public is reminded to always report suspicious persons or activity immediately by calling 9-1-1.